As the Washington Commanders head into Week 16, they face a critical matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, one of the league’s most dominant teams. Despite some strong performances this season, the Commanders have struggled in key areas that have hindered their chances of staying competitive against top-tier opponents like the Eagles. To have a shot at pulling off the upset, Washington will need to solve several critical issues. Here are three key problems the Commanders must address to keep the game close and possibly secure a victory.
1. Stopping Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ Dynamic Offense
The Eagles’ offense, led by MVP contender Jalen Hurts, is one of the most potent in the NFL. Hurts has developed into a dual-threat quarterback who can beat defenses both through the air and on the ground. His ability to extend plays with his legs, especially in crucial third-down situations, has been a nightmare for opposing defenses.
The Commanders have struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks this season, and they cannot afford to let Hurts break free. Washington’s defensive line, which has been inconsistent at times, must apply consistent pressure without overcommitting and leaving gaps for Hurts to exploit. Additionally, the Commanders’ secondary will need to be disciplined, ensuring they don’t leave receivers like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith open downfield when Hurts inevitably scrambles. Slowing down Hurts will be essential if Washington wants to avoid falling behind early in the game.
2. Protecting Sam Howell and Improving Offensive Line Play
Sam Howell has shown flashes of promise as Washington’s starting quarterback, but the Commanders’ offensive line has been a major weak spot all season. In particular, they have struggled with pass protection, allowing pressure to get to Howell on too many occasions. Facing the Eagles’ fierce defensive front, led by stars like Fletcher Cox and Haason Reddick, Washington’s offensive line must play its best game of the season to give Howell time to make plays.
In Week 16, the Commanders will need to focus on protecting Howell, keeping him clean in the pocket to give him the chance to find his weapons, such as Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson. If the Eagles’ defensive line is able to collapse the pocket frequently, it will lead to turnovers and potentially derail any offensive rhythm Washington hopes to establish. Solidifying the offensive line will also open up running lanes for Brian Robinson Jr., a key factor in keeping the Eagles’ defense on its heels.
3. Containing the Eagles’ Run Game
The Eagles’ ground game is among the best in the NFL, with Miles Sanders and Jalen Hurts providing a two-headed monster that can pound the ball down defenses’ throats. Hurts’ ability to keep the ball on read-options and Sanders’ hard-running style create headaches for defensive coordinators. The Commanders have had difficulty stopping strong rushing attacks this season, and this could be their undoing against the Eagles.
Washington must do a better job of containing the Eagles’ run game, particularly on early downs, to force them into obvious passing situations. If the Commanders allow the Eagles to dictate the tempo with their running game, they will be able to control the clock and keep Washington’s offense off the field. To counter this, Washington’s defensive line and linebackers must be disciplined and aggressive. They must stay in their gaps and wrap up tackles to limit big plays.
Conclusion
The Washington Commanders have their work cut out for them in Week 16 when they face the formidable Philadelphia Eagles. The key to keeping this game competitive will be neutralizing Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ potent offense, protecting Sam Howell in the pocket, and stifling the Eagles’ lethal ground attack. If Washington can solve these problems and execute on both sides of the ball, they might just have a chance to pull off the upset against one of the NFC’s best teams.
